There is a world somewhere between reality and fiction. Although ignored by many, it is very real and so are those living in it. This forum is about the natural world. Here, wild animals will be heard and respected. The forum offers a glimpse into an unknown world as well as a room with a view on the present and the future. Anyone able to speak on behalf of those living in the emerald forest and the deep blue sea is invited to join.
Great post Patherinae, that was kind of my point before I got banned, the mane does hide a lot of the musculature of the male lion. That seems to be a key area where they posses a lot of strength compared to other bigcats. The leopards for their size can also have surprisingly strong necks.
This pic really shows what a male lion can look like without the mane.
*This image is copyright of its original author
And these two pics of the male lion Kovu also a great example of how a large male lion can look without the mane. Important to note, this lion was passed its prime, it died just recently, but still quite strong looking in the shoulders and body.